A Comprehensive Guide to Register New & Used Car

Shambhavi Singh
Est. Reading Time 6 mins

Dubai is a land of well-developed infrastructure with a vast network of highways, railways and connected roads. Citizens of Dubai can navigate the beautiful city and explore its various attractions conveniently. However, owning a car lets you avoid crowded public transport by offering a more personalised commuting experience. But before owning a car, you need to understand and adhere to the car registration process in Dubai to avoid any mishaps in the future. That's why we at Cars24 have curated the perfect guide on how to own your dream vehicle in Dubai. So without any further ado, let's steer in the right direction.

New car registration in Dubai

After buying your new car, the first thing you need to do is register it. Whilst the registration process can be straightforward, one must not forget to ensure compliance with the local regulations. Owners can register by visiting the RTA website but must submit essential documents to the authorities for a hassle-free process. A detailed list of the documents has been given below to ensure more clarity in the car registration process in Dubai:-

  • A valid residence visa issued from Dubai
  • A rental contract in Dubai which should be under your name
  • And proof of employment in Dubai

Read More : HOW TO GET A UAE CAR VALUATION CERTIFICATE

Documents required for car registration in Dubai

Owning a vehicle helps maintain organised and regulated traffic by contributing to road safety measures. It's also important to ensure your vehicle is legally compliant according to the regulations and meets all the necessary environmental standards. But before starting the process, bear in mind these important documents you need to submit:-

  • Traffic File
  • Original Emirates ID
  • Copy of Passport
  • UAE customs card/possession certificate
  • Electronic/Physical sale agreement from the buyer
  • Vehicle Insurance with a validity of 6 months
  • Letter from the bank only if it’s a financed car

Alternatively, to know more about the process, you can visit the RTA website to get a clear picture of the documents required and carry out the car registration process in Dubai without any worries.

Read More : HOW TO RENEW CAR REGISTRATION ONLINE IN UAE

Car registration validity in Dubai

The validity of car registration in Dubai is for one year. After one year, car owners should renew their vehicle registration to maintain its legal status. The entire process will be managed by The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to oversee the registrations and renewals, ensuring vehicles on the road comply with necessary regulations and safety standards. Car owners in Dubai should remember to renew their registration on time to avoid penalties or legal complications.

New car registration charges in Dubai

Remember that when you register a new car in Dubai, you have to pay a certain amount for it. The registration fee for a new car in Dubai is AED 420. This fee will include the administrative expense associated with the registration process, documentation, and issuance of the Mulkiya (registration card).

Apart from the registration fee, car owners need to open a traffic file if they don't have one. And opening a traffic file in Dubai costs another AED 220. This fee will then keep a record of the vehicle owner within the traffic system so that RTA manages all the fines and violations accordingly.

Additionally, other vehicles also have a registration fee, according to the RTA website. Please take note that these fees are subject to change, and it's recommended to verify the exact amounts with the RTA at the time of registration.

Read More : HERE IS EVERYTHING YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CAR INSURANCE IN UAE

Used car registration in Dubai

To register a used car in Dubai, drivers need to follow a standard set of procedures and provide certain documents. Below we mention a brief overview of the entire process of how to do used car registration in Dubai:-

  • First, obtain a vehicle test certificate from authorised vehicle testing centres like Tasjeel, Shamil, or others.
  • Now get valid car insurance and coverage for your used vehicle from the insurance company.
  • Prepare documents for the process like Emirates ID, Driving licence, insurance policy, and car registration card if available.
  • Visit the RTA website and submit all your required documents. Your paperwork process will begin hereafter.
  • Pay the required fees for registration along with any other additional costs like number plate fees or any other fees.

Essential Documents for second-hand car Registration in Dubai

The second-hand car market is pretty popular in Dubai. It's the responsibility of the buyer to keep his documents ready for the car registration process. Therefore to do second-hand car registration in Dubai, you will need the following documents for a simple and smooth procedure:-

  • Valid Traffic File
  • Vehicle Inspection Certificate
  • Vehicle Insurance Certificate
  • Original Emirates ID - From buyer and seller
  • Copy of Residence Visa (Buyer)
  • Copy of Passport (Buyer)
  • Vehicle Licence / Mulkiya (Seller)

Once the technical inspection of the vehicle is completed at an authorised centre such as Tasjeel or Shamil, along with the submission of necessary documents, the buyer gets complete car ownership.

After the ownership transfer, the registration process will begin. Upon payment of the applicable service fees, the new owner will get the vehicle licence and expiry stickers. Additionally, if there is a change in the vehicle's number, new licence plates are also issued.

Read More : 5 Best Used Cars to Buy in the UAE

Where to do used car registration in Dubai?

Make sure you visit the official website of RTA for the most accurate information regarding the specific locations to complete your car registration process. Customer representatives over there can guide you to the nearest service centre based on your location.

To drive any vehicle on the roads, you need to have a driving licence issued by the traffic authority in the UAE by the RTA. However, the two most common ways to do car registration in Dubai are as follows:-

Roads and Transport Authority Customer Service Centers

Dubai has several RTA customer service centres where you can complete the used car registration process. These centres have a range of services like vehicle registration, licensing, and other vehicle-related services.

Authorised Service Providers Affiliated To RTA

Apart from RTA centres, Dubai also has authorised service providers affiliated with the same for car registration and other services. These service providers may include service centres where you will have to pay auto registration fees authorised by the RTA to initiate the registration process.

Second-hand car registration cost in Dubai

The used car registration fees in Dubai can vary depending on factors such as the age and specifications of the vehicle. However, consider the common fees given below for applying for used car registration in Dubai:-

  • Registration fee: This is a standard fee for this process, costing AED 420.
  • Number plate fee: There is a separate fee for the issuance of number plates, ranging from AED 35 to AED 60.
  • Testing fee: The testing fee typically ranges from AED 150 to AED 250 for the technical inspection of the vehicle at an authorised testing centre.
  • Knowledge and Innovation Fee: This cost for knowledge fees is AED 20.

Conclusion

The car registration process in Dubai is an important process to ensure legal compliance and safety on the roads. By registering a vehicle, individuals can claim their ownership and be responsible towards maintaining effective driving measures. It enables authorities like RTA to monitor and enforce traffic regulations. Therefore, this Cars24 guide will help you understand the importance of the car registration process starting from basic documents to car-renewal charges in Dubai, enhancing security and avoiding accidents in the near future.

FAQs


How long does car registration take in Dubai?
The duration for car registration in Dubai can depend on several factors, including the efficiency of the entire process while applying for your documentation. Generally, the entire process takes approximately 2 to 3 hours.

Can I register a car without a licence in Dubai?
No, a driving licence is a mandatory requirement for vehicle registration in Dubai. The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) requires drivers to possess a valid driving licence to ensure that the vehicle owner can operate the vehicle on the roads.

Is it possible to buy a car in Dubai without having a residency?
No, it’s not possible to buy a residence in Dubai without having an Emirates ID or a local driving licence issued by the local authorities. Remember that under no circumstances will the  process vary for any individual.

How much does a 3-digit number plate cost in Dubai?
The cost of a 3-digit number plate in Dubai varies according to the specific number combination and  desirability. However, 3-digit number plates are premium and can have higher prices compared to regular number plates.

Dubai is a land of well-developed infrastructure with a vast network of highways, railways and connected roads. Citizens of Dubai can navigate the beautiful city and explore its various attractions conveniently. However, owning a car lets you avoid crowded public transport by offering a more personalised commuting experience. But before owning a car, you need to understand and adhere to the car registration process in Dubai to avoid any mishaps in the future. That's why we at Cars24 have curated the perfect guide on how to own your dream vehicle in Dubai. So without any further ado, let's steer in the right direction.

New car registration in Dubai

After buying your new car, the first thing you need to do is register it. Whilst the registration process can be straightforward, one must not forget to ensure compliance with the local regulations. Owners can register by visiting the RTA website but must submit essential documents to the authorities for a hassle-free process. A detailed list of the documents has been given below to ensure more clarity in the car registration process in Dubai:-

  • A valid residence visa issued from Dubai
  • A rental contract in Dubai which should be under your name
  • And proof of employment in Dubai

Read More : HOW TO GET A UAE CAR VALUATION CERTIFICATE

Documents required for car registration in Dubai

Owning a vehicle helps maintain organised and regulated traffic by contributing to road safety measures. It's also important to ensure your vehicle is legally compliant according to the regulations and meets all the necessary environmental standards. But before starting the process, bear in mind these important documents you need to submit:-

  • Traffic File
  • Original Emirates ID
  • Copy of Passport
  • UAE customs card/possession certificate
  • Electronic/Physical sale agreement from the buyer
  • Vehicle Insurance with a validity of 6 months
  • Letter from the bank only if it’s a financed car

Alternatively, to know more about the process, you can visit the RTA website to get a clear picture of the documents required and carry out the car registration process in Dubai without any worries.

Read More : HOW TO RENEW CAR REGISTRATION ONLINE IN UAE

Car registration validity in Dubai

The validity of car registration in Dubai is for one year. After one year, car owners should renew their vehicle registration to maintain its legal status. The entire process will be managed by The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to oversee the registrations and renewals, ensuring vehicles on the road comply with necessary regulations and safety standards. Car owners in Dubai should remember to renew their registration on time to avoid penalties or legal complications.

New car registration charges in Dubai

Remember that when you register a new car in Dubai, you have to pay a certain amount for it. The registration fee for a new car in Dubai is AED 420. This fee will include the administrative expense associated with the registration process, documentation, and issuance of the Mulkiya (registration card).

Apart from the registration fee, car owners need to open a traffic file if they don't have one. And opening a traffic file in Dubai costs another AED 220. This fee will then keep a record of the vehicle owner within the traffic system so that RTA manages all the fines and violations accordingly.

Additionally, other vehicles also have a registration fee, according to the RTA website. Please take note that these fees are subject to change, and it's recommended to verify the exact amounts with the RTA at the time of registration.

Read More : HERE IS EVERYTHING YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CAR INSURANCE IN UAE

Used car registration in Dubai

To register a used car in Dubai, drivers need to follow a standard set of procedures and provide certain documents. Below we mention a brief overview of the entire process of how to do used car registration in Dubai:-

  • First, obtain a vehicle test certificate from authorised vehicle testing centres like Tasjeel, Shamil, or others.
  • Now get valid car insurance and coverage for your used vehicle from the insurance company.
  • Prepare documents for the process like Emirates ID, Driving licence, insurance policy, and car registration card if available.
  • Visit the RTA website and submit all your required documents. Your paperwork process will begin hereafter.
  • Pay the required fees for registration along with any other additional costs like number plate fees or any other fees.

Essential Documents for second-hand car Registration in Dubai

The second-hand car market is pretty popular in Dubai. It's the responsibility of the buyer to keep his documents ready for the car registration process. Therefore to do second-hand car registration in Dubai, you will need the following documents for a simple and smooth procedure:-

  • Valid Traffic File
  • Vehicle Inspection Certificate
  • Vehicle Insurance Certificate
  • Original Emirates ID - From buyer and seller
  • Copy of Residence Visa (Buyer)
  • Copy of Passport (Buyer)
  • Vehicle Licence / Mulkiya (Seller)

Once the technical inspection of the vehicle is completed at an authorised centre such as Tasjeel or Shamil, along with the submission of necessary documents, the buyer gets complete car ownership.

After the ownership transfer, the registration process will begin. Upon payment of the applicable service fees, the new owner will get the vehicle licence and expiry stickers. Additionally, if there is a change in the vehicle's number, new licence plates are also issued.

Read More : 5 Best Used Cars to Buy in the UAE

Where to do used car registration in Dubai?

Make sure you visit the official website of RTA for the most accurate information regarding the specific locations to complete your car registration process. Customer representatives over there can guide you to the nearest service centre based on your location.

To drive any vehicle on the roads, you need to have a driving licence issued by the traffic authority in the UAE by the RTA. However, the two most common ways to do car registration in Dubai are as follows:-

Roads and Transport Authority Customer Service Centers

Dubai has several RTA customer service centres where you can complete the used car registration process. These centres have a range of services like vehicle registration, licensing, and other vehicle-related services.

Authorised Service Providers Affiliated To RTA

Apart from RTA centres, Dubai also has authorised service providers affiliated with the same for car registration and other services. These service providers may include service centres where you will have to pay auto registration fees authorised by the RTA to initiate the registration process.

Second-hand car registration cost in Dubai

The used car registration fees in Dubai can vary depending on factors such as the age and specifications of the vehicle. However, consider the common fees given below for applying for used car registration in Dubai:-

  • Registration fee: This is a standard fee for this process, costing AED 420.
  • Number plate fee: There is a separate fee for the issuance of number plates, ranging from AED 35 to AED 60.
  • Testing fee: The testing fee typically ranges from AED 150 to AED 250 for the technical inspection of the vehicle at an authorised testing centre.
  • Knowledge and Innovation Fee: This cost for knowledge fees is AED 20.

Conclusion

The car registration process in Dubai is an important process to ensure legal compliance and safety on the roads. By registering a vehicle, individuals can claim their ownership and be responsible towards maintaining effective driving measures. It enables authorities like RTA to monitor and enforce traffic regulations. Therefore, this Cars24 guide will help you understand the importance of the car registration process starting from basic documents to car-renewal charges in Dubai, enhancing security and avoiding accidents in the near future.

FAQs


How long does car registration take in Dubai?
The duration for car registration in Dubai can depend on several factors, including the efficiency of the entire process while applying for your documentation. Generally, the entire process takes approximately 2 to 3 hours.

Can I register a car without a licence in Dubai?
No, a driving licence is a mandatory requirement for vehicle registration in Dubai. The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) requires drivers to possess a valid driving licence to ensure that the vehicle owner can operate the vehicle on the roads.

Is it possible to buy a car in Dubai without having a residency?
No, it’s not possible to buy a residence in Dubai without having an Emirates ID or a local driving licence issued by the local authorities. Remember that under no circumstances will the  process vary for any individual.

How much does a 3-digit number plate cost in Dubai?
The cost of a 3-digit number plate in Dubai varies according to the specific number combination and  desirability. However, 3-digit number plates are premium and can have higher prices compared to regular number plates.

Read More
BUY CARbudget carsBUYING USED CARnew car tipscar registrationCAR INFORMATIONcar featuresCAR SELL IN DUBAICARS in UAEdriving in uae

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